Nims studied at the University of Colorado Boulder and received a bachelor’s degree in communication in 2003
n 2010, he joined King Abdul Aziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) as a film producer
Updated 26 January 2019
Arab News
Todd Albert Nims is a Saudi-born American filmmaker who founded the Riyadh-based production company Empty Quarter Entertainment in October 2018.
Arab News spoke to Nims during the Winter Enrichment Program at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.
The filmmaker said he had been inspired to take part in filming the story of King Faisal’s childhood years.
“It is an important story to be told, a 13-year-old boy going on this diplomatic mission with the fate of the country hanging in the balance. It is quite unique.”
Nims studied at the University of Colorado Boulder and received a bachelor’s degree in communication in 2003.
In 2010, he joined King Abdul Aziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) as a film producer and helped establish the Saudi Film Days program to encourage and fund filmmakers in the Kingdom.
His film “Joud” explores Saudi Arabia’s history and culture, and will be screened in cinemas throughout the country.
Nims’ first feature, “Home: The Aramco Brats’ Story,” won critical praise. His series of short films, “Children of the World,” received a Silver Dolphin at the Cannes Media and TV Awards.
In 2012, after the Tunisian revolution, the filmmaker worked on “Push Tunisia,” a short film exploring skateboard activism.
Alongside his production company, Nims also runs a media consultancy business, AB Media, based in Riyadh. He is currently working on a horror movie set in Saudi Arabia’s southern regions.
International brands turn to Riyadh to expand cooperation
Capital cements role as hub at World Defense Show
Updated 6 sec ago
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's capital is cementing its role as a rising hub in the global defense industry, and the World Defense Show has attracted international brands eager to showcase advanced technologies and expand partnerships in the Kingdom and beyond.
Held under the patronage of the Saudi leadership, the show — which runs until Feb. 12 — has brought together defense manufacturers, technology innovators and government representatives from around the world.
Arab News spoke to several international exhibitors who underscored the show’s growing importance as a gateway to pursue regional and global cooperation.
Among the returning participants is Passtech Machine Tools, represented by Syed Zahid, its sales manager.
Passtech Machine Tools is participating in the World Defense Show in Riyadh for the third time, says sales manager Syed Zahid. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
The company collaborates with various international brands, providing tools, machines and gauges, including advanced CNC (computer numerical control) machinery from South Korea.
For Zahid, WDS has proved to be a strategic platform, and he said: “This is our third time. We see it as very, very useful.”
From China, Jihua Group Co. Ltd. showcases advanced navigation devices and integrated systems. Peter Wang, its senior product manager, expressed optimism about expanding cooperation.
At the company’s booth, Arab News was introduced to several technologies, including what Wang described as a “true-color navigation device.”
Highlighting a wearable system, Wang said it was designed to enhance mobility and operational efficiency.
Jihua Group Co. Ltd. of China, another participant ad WDS Riyadh, showcased advanced navigation devices and integrated systems. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
He emphasized the diversity of visitors and the potential for cross-border cooperation, and added: “I meet different countries’ customers here. I’m very happy and I want to get some opportunities for cooperation.”
Turkiye is also represented at the event. Masttech, which is attending WDS for the first time, is showcasing its products for visitors.
Deputy General Manager Sitki Tuzun said: “We are here to show all our products. We are producing electromechanical, mechanical and pneumatic mast systems here.”
While the company does not yet have Saudi clients, Tuzun made it clear that the show was a strategic leap toward entering the market.
“We are here for connection and new business cooperation,” he said.
First-time WDS participant Masttech hopes to capture a portion of the Saudi defense market soon. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
The World Defense Show has demonstrated its increasing influence as a platform from which global brands meet regional opportunity.
Beyond static displays, the show serves as a dynamic networking arena, connecting manufacturers, suppliers, and defense stakeholders under one roof.
As Saudi Arabia accelerates efforts to localize its defense industry and invest in advanced technologies, WDS continues to facilitate partnerships, technology transfer and international collaboration — reinforcing Riyadh’s emergence as a central node in the global defense ecosystem.
